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Maintaining Timber Windows

A well-maintained window made of timber is a crucial element of the historic fabric of a building. It reflects in varying degree the technology and materials of the time it was made, the architectural style and craftsmanship.

When emergency upvc door repairs are feasible to existing windows should be made in situ. Repairing the most severe areas of decay is possible by using specialized resin-based systems.

Durability

Timber windows were designed to last for hundreds of years. They do require some maintenance to keep them looking good. Maintenance tasks include repairs to sash cables as well as tightening the pulleys on sash, and painting. The need to upgrade windows made of timber to improve efficiency in energy use is also growing. This could include replacing old glazing units, repairing the window rebates that are in place or installing new cills for improved air seal.

One of the major issues with traditional windows is the damage caused by corrosion of the paintwork. This is especially important in the case of sash windows, as the gaps between sashes can be extremely large. In these situations water can get into paint film and cause rotting of the wood or putty underneath. The rotting may be further aggravated due to weather conditions that are poor. To stop this from happening, windows must be painted regularly with an exterior wood paint.

In addition to repainting, corroded areas need to be repaired with a resin-based repair product. This will ensure that the best possible amount of the original fabric is retained. It is crucial to reduce the number of holes that are created in the frame to allow cable entry, as these can admit moisture and cause decay.

Another issue with older windows is structural movement in the wall which can lead to deformation of the frame and the sash. This can lead to sash no longer fitting correctly or sticking or jamming into the opening and broken glazing. This can often be fixed by the fitting of new sash boxes constructed from slow-growing deal (pine) or oak. The cill needs to be constructed from a sturdy hardwood, like oak, in order to prevent any the movement of new and older work.

To alleviate this issue to reduce the risk of this happening, there are a variety of companies that manufacture Boston pattern sash made of wood that will fit most existing openings. They are available in a variety of sizes and finishes that meet the requirements of modern homeowners. The new sash, coupled with quadruple draft strips and improved thermal insulation can make a significant difference to the energy-efficiency of a home.

Aesthetics

Many old wooden windows have an excellent aesthetic value because they typically illustrate, in some way, the materials and technology and architectural style of the time from when they were built. They could have significant historical value in their own right. This is particularly true of early windows that were not glazed in timber-framed structures, which were just a collection of openings in the frame, which were divided horizontally into mullions and iron or wood bars to keep out intruders.

It is important to maintain the appearance of traditional timber window joinery. It is vital that any decay resulting from moisture penetration should be immediately stopped once it is identified. This is best accomplished by applying a thorough coat of paint, particularly in areas where there has already been damage or deterioration. It is recommended to use paints that are specifically designed to be used part of the system (primer, undercoat and finish) and follow the manufacturer's guidelines in terms of preparation and the number of coats needed at each stage.

The fungus that causes wet rot is able to spread quickly in old windows made of wood. To prevent this, take out any rotten or damaged parts as promptly as you are able to. The replacement of rotting wood should be done with care and with a slow-growing deal (pine) and, whenever possible using the same species as which is being removed to prevent any movement differences between the new section and the existing timbers.

In the late period of the 17th century and the middle of the medieval period, glass became cheaper and more plentiful so that glazed openings in timber-framed buildings gradually became sophisticated, with tracery made of wood, moulded mullions and deep projecting cills. Increasingly, the glazing was set within rebated frames and then pinned with 'glazing sprigs' rather than into lead cames. This method of glazing is not just less prone to leaking but it can allow for much wider, clearer sheets of glass to be used in the windows than would be possible without the need for leaded lights.

Energy efficiency

Traditional timber windows offer an excellent energy performance due to their thickness, multi-layer construction and very careful attention to detailing. The large glass surfaces, the deep projecting cills and large glazing areas help to reduce air infiltration. With secondary glazing and draughtproofing, the windows can be improved to improve their energy efficiency. It is crucial to remember that these measures should be taken into consideration when it comes to the overall appearance and integrity of the original windows.

It is logical to repair or upgrade existing windows that are older rather than replacing them, particularly when improvements in energy efficiency can be made by simple repairs. Historic windows are often of historical value, as they reflect a variety of technical development and changes to architectural style. Most people think that these windows will need to be replaced in the near future. However, most are still in service for 150,200, and even 250 years if they are maintained with proper maintenance.

It is crucial to understand that decay issues associated with traditional timber windows are easily prevented with timely and thorough repairs. Additionally, it is essential to spot damp penetration issues and fix them promptly to avoid major damage. The early deterioration of paint is a major issue, as it allows moisture to penetrate the wood and cause wet rot. It is not uncommon for this issue to go unnoticed until paintwork begins to crack or become wavier. However, it can cause structural damage and lead to further decay.

A good paint will prevent moisture penetration. To avoid condensation and mould, it is important to keep the paintwork as clean as possible. Modern synthetic paints pose a challenge because they are water-resistant, and can cause mildew to develop within the window supplier cambridge frame.

Most older windows were made of sapwood-rich timber. These timbers are susceptible to deterioration rapidly if exposed to wet weather, but can be protected by an extensive preservative treatment prior to when they are used. It is also essential to ensure that the type of timber used is well-suited to the climate and site conditions, as these elements will influence the durability of the joinery. Local upvc window renovation manufacturers make a variety of timber sash that can be tailored to fit specific openings from the past. They are available in the standard Boston pattern or in custom sizes to fit historic buildings.

Maintenance

Regular inspection as well as careful redecoration and prompt repairs can extend the life of wooden windows. The major cause of decay is the penetration of moisture through the deteriorated paint and putty. This can be avoided by using a good wood preservative and thoroughly painting the wood.

It is essential that upvc Doors repairs to old sash or casement windows are properly executed, and carried out with the minimum disturbance. A lot of traditional wooden window designs are repairable without removing the frame, and this approach should be used whenever it is possible. Loose or peeling paint should be removed carefully and sanded lightly to increase the 'key' of the surface and facilitate an improved adhesion of the new coating. Be careful to avoid stripping old paint layers which could have historical value and if they are present it is recommended that a paint analysis be carried out.

When a piece of wood is rotten, the best way to proceed is to remove the rotted material and replace it with spliced-in timber inserts that are shaped to match the existing profiles. The timber inserts should be treated with a wood preservative, and the joint between masonry sub-cill and timber cill should be sealed.

Replacement of windows made of traditional PVC-u can be a tempting option, especially when the installer offers an "all-in-one" installation that takes care of removal and replacement in a day. It is, however, essential that the person installing replacement windows has a complete knowledge of the structure and history of traditional wooden frames. This will allow them to make appropriate suggestions for improvements to energy efficiency and other technological upgrades that do not alter the historical character of a building. Those providing replacement windows should be registered with a Competent Persons Scheme like FENSA. This will ensure the replacements are approved by the Building Regulations as a suitable option. A skilled carpenter can put in PVC-u windows that are suited to original building's character. This is especially true when the windows are located in listed buildings and conservation areas.